Adil Ray Gets Mosaic Going in the West Midlands
Adil Ray welcomed a rather different audience to his usual presenting spot on BBC Asian Network. On Wednesday 13th May, over 100 guests joined distinguished speakers and exciting performers at the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Centre for the official launch of Mosaic in the West Midlands.
Arriving at such a beautiful venue, one that is an integral part of the fabric of Birmingham, guests were greeted by the soothing music of the tablar and sitar, played by Harjinder Matharu and Roopa Panesar, provided by sampad.
The Al-Madina choir kicked off the evening with their beautiful and heart-warming performance, which was a hard act to follow. By way of introduction to Mosaic those assembled heard from both John O'Brien, Managing Director of Mosaic, and HRH The Prince of Wales via a video message of support.
Rear-Admiral Hussain spoke of his motivation for supporting Mosaic and his hopes for the programme in the future. Shaista Gohir, Director of Muslim Voice UK and Mosaic mentor spoke of her first mentoring experience at one of the schools already engaged with Mosaic in the region.
Stewart Towe CBE, Managing Director of Hadley Group Industries Ltd, explained his views on the importance and impact that businesses can have through Mosaic.
Muslim Women Music Makers, currently on their European tour with Ulfah Arts, put on a mesmerising performance, specially created for the launch.
The evening was drawn to a close with Imam Monawar Hussain of Eton College unveiling the interpretation of the Mosaic logo by local artist Shaheen Ahmed, who worked with students from Small Heath School. Guests and speakers then pledged their commitment to Mosaic by signing this logo.
"The support of business for Mosaic's aims will ensure our young people aspire to worthwhile careers with the help, support and experience of the mentoring process'' Stewart Towe, Group Chairman and Managing Director of Hadley Industries Holdings Ltd
"One of the most important and satisfying events I have had the pleasure to be involved with" Adil Ray, BBC Asian Network and compere at Mosaic West Midlands launch
"Mosaic's expansion into the West Midlands region is an important and exciting development. Given the impact that Mosaic has had in the last 18 months throughout the UK, I have high hopes that it will make a huge difference to young people and Muslim communities in the area" John O'Brien, Managing Director of Mosaic
For more information or to join Mosaic
Please contact Kim O'Reilly at kim.o'reilly@bitc.org.uk / 0121 451 2227.
Warm Thanks
Warm thanks are due to sampad for providing the tablar and sitar musicians, Compass Group for providing the food and drinks by Mahir's Experience, and Pioneers and the CBSO for their assistance in making the event such a great success.